ME103: Thermodynamics

Unit 1: Introduction to ThermodynamicsWe will begin by taking a look at important thermodynamic concepts and
terminology that you will use throughout the course. We will use what
are known as systems to define our realms of analysis. A thermodynamic
system is any bounded area that we place under observation. Systems
come in a number of variations. If, for example, mass is not allowed to
enter or exit the region under examination, the system is considered a
“closed” system. If mass is allowed to transfer across the boundaries
of the area, however, it is an “open” system.
This unit will also define and examine thermodynamic properties and
states and review common units, relationships, and conversions that you
will need to recognize and perform in this course. For example, how do
you define pressure? How can we make conversions between SI and USCS
units? You may be familiar with some or all of these; if this is the
case, use this section as a refresher.

Unit 1 Time Advisory
This unit will take you approximately 15 hours to complete.

☐ Subunit 1.1: 5 hours

☐ Subunit 1.1.1: 3 hours

☐ Subunit 1.1.2: 2 hours

☐ Subunit 1.2: 5 hours

☐ Subunit 1.2.1: 2 hours

☐ Subunit 1.2.2: 1 hour

☐ Subunit 1.2.3: 2 hours

☐ Subunit 1.3: 5 hours

Unit1 Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:
- Identify properties and states of a system.
- Identify and use units as well as perform unit conversions.
- Define the terms “systems,” “process,” and “cycle.”

Instructions: Please download the PDF files for Lecture 1 and read
pages 1-12. Can the boundary of a system change in size or shape as
the system undergoes changes?
Terms of Use: The linked material above has been reposted by the
kind permission of G. Ciccarelli, and can be viewed in its original
form [here](http://me.queensu.ca/Courses/230/LectureNotes.html). Please
note that this material is under copyright and cannot be reproduced
in any capacity without explicit permission from the copyright
holder.

Instructions: Please read pages 1–15. The reading will provide
you with some historical perspective on the field of thermodynamics.
Who is recognized as the first thermal engineer and invented the
first steam engine? What do you think the most important historical
milestones in the study of thermodynamics?

Instructions: Please download the PDF files for Lectures 1-2 and
read page 13. This reading will introduce you to the concepts of
process and cycle in thermodynamics.
Terms of Use: The linked material above has been reposted by the
kind permission of G. Ciccarelli, and can be viewed in its original
form [here](http://me.queensu.ca/Courses/230/LectureNotes.html). Please
note that this material is under copyright and cannot be reproduced
in any capacity without explicit permission from the copyright
holder.

Instructions: In this subunit, you will learn about units of
measurements. A comprehensive and thorough understanding of the
units of measurements of the physical quantities and properties
commonly encountered in mechanical engineering is essential to the
study of thermodynamics. From the link above, click on “4.
Fundamental Concepts Units Powerpoint,” Under Subsection C. You
will be directed to a PDF version of a PowerPoint presentation by
Dr. Ann Kenimer of Texas A&M that covers units and unit
conversions. Please read through all of the slides in the
presentation. Note that this reading will cover the material you
need to know for subunits 1.2.1–1.2.3.
After reading, list three base units and five derived commonly
derived properties. What is a bar? Which units are named after
famous physicists?
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use
displayed on the webpage above.

Instructions: Use the unit converter to test your ability to
convert SI units to USCS units for density, pressure, volume, and
energy. What are the SI prefixes for 10-3,
106, 1012 ?

Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use
displayed on the webpage above.

1.2.1 SI and USCS UnitsNote: This subunit is covered by the web media assigned beneath subunit
1.2. Focus specifically on slides 5, 6, 9, and 10. You will learn
about the International System of Units (SI) and the U.S. Customary
System of Units (UCSU).

1.2.2 Units of PropertiesNote: This subunit is covered by the web media assigned beneath
subunit 1.2. Focus specifically on slides 7, 8, and 11. You will learn
about the* *the derived units for pressure, velocity, energy, and so
forth.

1.2.3 Unit ConversionsNote: This subunit is covered by the web media assigned beneath
subunit 1.2. Focus specifically on slides 12 and 13. You will learn
about the conversion between the International System of Units (SI) and
the U.S. Customary System of Units (UCSU).

Instructions: Please click on the link above and answer all 10
questions in the quiz. Select your answer from choices given for
each question. Click on “Submit Answers” at the bottom of the
webpage when you have answered all the questions. The webpage will
tell you whether your answer is correct and what the correct answer
is.

Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use
displayed on the webpage above.

Instructions: Please click on the link above and download the
assessment. Work through all problems and write down your answers.
Read the instructions for each problem carefully. Once you
complete the assessment, compare your answers with the "Guide to
Responding”
(PDF). This assessment will cover all topics discussed in Unit 1.